Home Window Repair vs. Replacement
Whether your child’s backyard golf practice ended with a broken windowpane or you’ve noticing drafts around your windows, there are many reasons homeowners ponder if their house windows need professional attention. Here’s our list of common scenarios that can cause you to question whether window repair or replacement is needed and our expert advice on how to handle the situation.
Inoperable Windows
If your house windows have not been opened for an extended period of time, there are a few possible culprits. One possible explanation is the expansion and contraction between sash and frame due to repeated exposure to nature’s elements. When this occurs, full frame window replacement is the ideal solution.
Alternatively, window sashes and frames can be bonded together by layers of paint or grime. In this instance, it is possible to pry them apart with the use of hand tools. However, doing so can damage the window. This should not be attempted on windows installed prior to 1978 without professional assistance because of the dangers associated with lead paint removal.
Damaged Window Seals
One of the hardest working parts of a window is the seal. Over time, it can crack or break as Mother Nature takes its toll. If you notice a fogginess that cannot be wiped off the window’s interior or exterior or ice in between the panes of glass, it’s likely that window seal failure has taken place. This means that the argon gas located in the gas packs of the double or triple pane windows has escaped which results in the windows energy efficiency properties dissolving.
Window Condensation
Condensation on windows spells real trouble and should be diagnosed by a reputable professional ASAP. In some instances, it’s a sign that home humidity levels are too high. Other times, it’s a red flag that window replacement is necessary in order to stop the process of mold and mildew growing on the window’s frame which will eventually lead to rot. The placement of the condensation matters. If it is located between the windowpanes, the window has reached the end of its lifespan and is allowing air infiltration to take place. Interior condensation that’s manifesting itself at the center of the window’s glass pack is a signal that the argon gas inside the window has escaped, sacrificing the window’s insulating properties.
Broken Windowpanes
Whether it’s from a baseball, rock thrown by a lawnmower, or an attempted break-in, broken windowpanes can put a real damper on your day. This situation should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. If the window is only a year or two old, it can make sense to proceed with simply having the glass repaired. However, if the glass panes within an older, or builder grade window shatter, the funds used to complete glass replacement might be better spent on a new energy efficient window that will likely lower your utility bills and enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Should You Replace Your House Windows?
In summary, when it comes to home window issues, the choice between repair and replacement is pivotal. Prioritize the long-term benefits of energy efficiency, aesthetics, and functionality. Reach out to Lindus Construction for personalized guidance and professional services, ensuring the optimal choice for your home’s windows.
